Clouds and Solar Radiation
Satellite images are extremely useful in monitoring cloud coverage, location, and movement. There are other methods to measure cloud attributes, including visual observations. In this activity, incoming solar radiation measurements will be compared to satellite data to determine if the former can be used to provide information about clouds.

Objectives
  1. Given a visible satellite image, the student will be able to describe where clouds are located in the state.
  2. Given a map of Mesonet solar radiation measurements, the student will be able to determine regions of relatively high and low values of solar radiation.
  3. The student will practice analyzing different types of data sets and comparing patterns between two types of data.
Notes to the teacher
  1. Depending on the age and ability of the students, the Mesonet solar radiation map can be either of the following types: (a) color-filled contour image, (b) line contour image, or (c) values plotted at each station.
PROCEDURE

1. Obtain a printed satellite image and Mesonet solar radiation map (SRAD) or view the images on a computer using WxImage or other image display software.

2. Examine the satellite image and the Mesonet solar radiation map. Look for similarities and differences.

3. Answer questions below.

QUESTIONS

1. Describe the pattern of clouds in the satellite image. (In what part(s) of the state are there clouds?)

2. Where are the highest solar radiation values? Where are the lowest values?

3. Can you find any relationship between cloud cover on the satellite image and Mesonet solar radiation? If so, describe how they are related.
 PREREQUISITES
  • Definition and understanding of dewpoint temperature
  • Ability to interpret a wind vector map
MATERIALS

(Per person):
  • To view PDF files, get Adobe's free Reader here.
VOCABULARY

Satellite image
Solar radiation

CORE CURRICULUM SKILLS APPLIED IN THIS LESSON
  • Express ideas and opinions orally and in writing.
  • Describe, extend and analyze a wide variety of patterns using tables, graphs, and rules.
  • Identify and extend patterns and use experiences and observations to make suppositions.
  • Evaluate results to determine their reasonableness.
  • Predict possible outcomes through simple experiments or simulations.
  • Interpret line, bar, and circle graphs.
  • Identify the properties by which a set of events could be ordered.
  • Arrange the steps of a scientific problem in the proper sequential order.
  • Order and interpret data.
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